Crackdown on dangerous car cruisers

Wakefield Council has introduced its first public space protection order (PSPO) to stop motorists driving erratically at a popular park.

The order will cover Pontefract Park, the roundabout and road leading to the park, the race course and the nearby McDonald’s car park.

And the council hopes it will help tackle rising levels of anti-social behaviour, including drivers carrying out dangerous manoeuvres, playing music loudly and cars speeding at the entrance and in the surrounding areas of the park.

Local authorities can use PSPOs to ban certain activities they believe are having a “detrimental impact” on the quality of life.

Those found guilty of breaching of the order could face a fine of up to £1,000.

Coun Maureen Cummings, the council’s cabinet member for environment and communities, said: “Pontefract Park is an important part of the local area and we want to make sure that it continues to be enjoyed by local residents.

“Unfortunately, the park and its surrounding areas have suffered from anti-social behaviour recently with individuals driving erratically and dangerously.

“By enforcing a PSPO, we are sending out a clear message that anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated and we are doing everything in our power to tackle these reckless and dangerous actions.

“We want to make sure that the park and the surrounding areas continue to be safely used and enjoyed by local residents.”

Insp Geoff Carter, of the Pontefract and Knottingley Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT), said: “Pontefract Park is a well used community location.

“Local residents and users of the park have been affected by the behaviour of a few individuals.

“The PSPO will assist both my staff and our partners in dealing with anti-social behaviour within the area.”